What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is a medical condition that is brought about by various factors. Many adults are diagnosed with the condition but some are not aware of having it.

The blood pressure is the measurement on how hard the blood drives against the arterial walls. If the pressure is too high, this places excess force on the arterial walls and the heart. The blood pressure reading is comprised of 2 numbers:

Systolic – pressure as the heart beats

Diastolic – pressure while the heart is in a resting phase

When it comes to moderate cases of high blood pressure, the treatment involves lifestyle changes such as cutting down weight, reducing the intake of caffeine and alcohol, cessation of smoking and regular exercise.

An individual has high blood pressure if both readings show 140/90 mmHg or higher, usually on separate occasions.

What are the risk factors and complications?

There are various factors that puts one at higher risk for high blood pressure. These might be associated to lifestyle or hereditary such as:

Being overweight

Age

Lack of exercise

Family history of high blood pressure

Diet high in salt

Smoking

Excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol

Stress

Smoking

Lack of vegetables and fresh fruit in the diet

Having Caribbean or African descent

It is important to note that high blood pressure might also be triggered by a medical conditions or medications such as the following:

How is it diagnosed

The blood pressure is measured using a sphygmomanometer that can be either manual or digital. A reading must be taken in a seated position with the arm rested on a table or desk and after resting for at least 5 minutes.

If the blood pressure reading is 120/80, it is considered normal. High blood pressure is likely if the reading is around 140 systolic. If the reading is high, it is recommended to get another reading on a separate occasion since it might be affected by various factors such as stress and anxiety.

Management of high blood pressure

When it comes to moderate cases of high blood pressure, the treatment involves lifestyle changes such as cutting down weight, reducing the intake of caffeine and alcohol, cessation of smoking and regular exercise.

In severe cases, medications are needed. The doctor might prescribe more than one type of medication to control the blood pressure. The commonly used medications that lower the blood pressure include:

Calcium channel blockers – these works by preventing calcium from entering the heart muscle and blood vessels that widens the arteries